Brief plain language background
The cornea is the outermost clear part of the eye surface, made up of five layers including the endothelium. Corneal endothelial cells possess a unique non-regenerative quality, rendering corneal transplantation the sole viable solution for damage inflicted by disease or eye surgery.
What problem/knowledge gap does it help address?
With advancements in ophthalmic procedures, the prevalence of repeated surgeries has surged, foreshadowing an increase in corneal endothelial cell damage cases. Symptoms only present when the density of these cells decreases to a certain amount, which can trigger bullous keratopathy – permanent corneal swelling.
Currently, routine clinical practice relies solely on corneal epithelial cell density assessment via a microscope, yet fails to assess cell functional capability as well as number, which could aide prognosis and clinical management.
Aim of the project
To determine if DARC – a technology currently used to detect retinal cell death – can facilitate the visualization of corneal endothelial cell death.
This project also aims to further the career progression of the applicant, as amongst other benefits, they will foster expertise at the intersection of cutting-edge technology and ophthalmology.
Key procedures/objectives
- Using a model of corneal endothelial cell injury, apply DARC to detect cell damage and confirm its accuracy using microscopy.
- BAK – a preservative commonly found in eye drops – will be tested at different concentrations with corneas to identify any adverse effects in corneal endothelial cell density.
Potential impact on people with sight loss
Improving the assessment of corneal endothelial cells through the use of DARC could demonstrate the functional evaluation of cell density – potentially enhancing prognosis and treatment strategies for those at risk of sight loss.